What are Blood Pressure Abnormalities?

• Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries
• Abnormal blood pressure means the levels are either too high or too low
• Can lead to serious health problems if not managed properly
• Two main types: Hypertension and Hypotension

What is Hypertension?

• Also known as high blood pressure
• Occurs when the force of blood is consistently too high
• Increases risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss

Causes of Hypertension

• Genetics or family history
• Obesity or being overweight
• High salt intake
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking and alcohol use
• Stress
• Chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease

Symptoms of Hypertension

• Often has no symptoms (silent condition)
• Severe cases may cause headaches, chest pain, or vision changes
• May lead to heart palpitations or shortness of breath

Diagnosis of Hypertension

• Blood pressure readings above 130/80 mm Hg on multiple checks
• Use of home monitors or ambulatory monitoring
• Regular doctor visits to track trends

Treatment for Hypertension

• Lifestyle changes: diet, exercise, weight loss
• Low-sodium diet and reduced alcohol
• Medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics
• Stress management and quitting smoking

What is Hypotension?

• Also known as low blood pressure
• Occurs when the blood pressure drops too low to supply organs with enough blood
• Can cause dizziness or fainting

Causes of Hypotension

• Dehydration
• Blood loss or trauma
• Heart conditions
• Endocrine disorders
• Certain medications
• Severe infections or allergic reactions

Symptoms of Hypotension

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Cold, clammy skin

Diagnosis of Hypotension

• Blood pressure readings consistently below 90/60 mm Hg
• Review of medical history and symptoms
• Blood tests or ECG to check for underlying causes

Treatment for Hypotension

• Increase fluid and salt intake
• Wearing compression stockings
• Medications to raise blood pressure
• Treating underlying medical conditions
• Standing up slowly to avoid dizziness

What are the complications of Blood Pressure Abnormalities?

• Heart disease or heart failure
• Stroke or brain damage
• Kidney damage or failure
• Fainting injuries from falls (hypotension)
• Vision loss or blurred vision
• Cognitive decline with chronic high or low blood pressure

How can Blood Pressure Abnormalities be prevented or managed?

• Regular monitoring at home and clinic
• Healthy, balanced diet with reduced sodium
• Regular physical activity
• Stay hydrated and avoid sudden posture changes
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Manage stress effectively
• Take medications as prescribed
• Regular doctor visits for checkups

When to see a doctor?

• Consistently high or low blood pressure readings
• Dizziness, fainting, or fatigue
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Blurred vision or confusion
• Family history of heart disease or stroke
• Symptoms worsen or don’t improve with treatment